I believe in ethical training and behavior practices that are informed by the best scientific data available, and supported by my advanced degree.
In addition to serving as a faculty advisor for the prestigious Victoria Stilwell Dog Training Academy (VSDTA), where I am fortunate to be able to work and train my future colleagues, I also am an Instructor for the incomparable Grisha Stewart Academy (GSA). Both are humane forward academies where students and trainers alike can further their education and stay up to date on humane training and behavior techniques.
I currently hold a Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT) certification, located in the UK. They are beholden to the rigid structures of the Animal Behavior and Training Council (ABTC) standards for trainers, behavior technicians, behavio(u)rists, etc. As an Animal Training Instructor certified by PACT, I am able to also be on the prestigious ABTC list of globally recommended trainers and technicians, as well. As it stands today (August, 2026), I remain the only person on either register in the USA, which is a feat I’m super proud of. That said, I want more to apply and earn certification through these bodies as I find them ethical, structured, and a great step in supporting licensing / regulating the dog training and behavior industry.
Melissa McCue-McGrath 